The Best Skincare Routine for an 11-Year-Old

Walking down the skincare aisle can feel overwhelming, and when you're shopping for your child, the stakes feel even higher. The shelves are packed with trendy ingredients and bold claims, but preteen skin is delicate and has very different needs than adult skin. It’s more sensitive, its protective barrier is still developing, and it’s definitely not ready for the high-potency serums marketed to us. This guide is designed to cut through the noise. We’ll help you understand what their skin truly needs so you can confidently build the best skincare routine for an 11 year old—one that is simple, safe, and actually works.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on the Three Essentials: A preteen's routine only needs a gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a daily sunscreen. Mastering these simple steps consistently is far more effective than using a complicated, multi-product regimen.
• Choose Age-Appropriate Formulas: Your skincare products are too harsh for your child's developing skin. Opt for gentle formulas designed for young skin and avoid strong active ingredients like retinoids and exfoliants that can cause irritation.
• Teach Skincare as a Health Habit: Frame the daily routine as an act of self-care, not a beauty chore. Explaining the "why" behind each step—especially daily sun protection—empowers your child to build confidence and take ownership of their long-term skin health.

Why Does Your 11-Year-Old Need a Skincare Routine?

If you're wondering whether your 11-year-old is too young for skincare, you're not alone. It might seem like just yesterday you were dealing with scraped knees, not clogged pores. But this is actually the perfect age to introduce a simple, healthy routine. As their bodies change, so does their skin. Establishing a few basic habits now isn't about chasing trends; it's about teaching them how to care for their skin, building their confidence, and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Think of it less as a beauty regimen and more as a fundamental part of their daily wellness, just like brushing their teeth.

Understand Their Changing Skin

Around the preteen years, hormones start to shift, and one of the first places you’ll notice it is on their skin. The oil glands kick into a higher gear, which can lead to clogged pores, blackheads, and the first signs of breakouts. In fact, experts suggest that daily face washing becomes important around ages 8 to 10 as pores begin to get congested. Introducing a gentle cleanser and moisturizer at this stage helps manage that extra oil and keeps their skin balanced and clear. It’s a simple, proactive way to handle these natural changes before they become a source of stress.

Build Healthy Habits for Life

A skincare routine is so much more than just washing a face—it’s a daily act of self-care. Teaching your child to take a few minutes for themselves each morning and night builds a powerful foundation for lifelong wellness. This simple ritual can be incredibly empowering, giving them a sense of control and ownership over their changing bodies. It’s a chance to teach them that caring for themselves is important. By making skincare a normal part of their day, you’re helping them form healthy habits that will stick with them long after the preteen years are over, fostering confidence in who they are becoming as Bright Girls.

Prevent Future Skin Problems

Getting started with skincare now is one of the best ways to prevent future issues. The most important habit to form is daily sunscreen use. Protecting their skin from sun damage at this age is crucial for preventing long-term problems down the road. At the same time, it’s important to use the right products. Using too many harsh ingredients or adult formulas can strip their young skin, damage its protective barrier, and actually cause irritation and breakouts. A gentle, age-appropriate routine focuses on prevention by keeping skin healthy and resilient, using only safe and effective ingredients.

What Belongs in a Preteen's Skincare Routine?

When you’re just starting out, a skincare routine should be simple, effective, and easy to follow. The goal isn’t to chase trends or use a dozen different products. It’s about building a healthy foundation with a few key steps that protect and support young, changing skin. By focusing on the absolute essentials, you can help your preteen create a positive habit that will stick with them for life. A great routine doesn't need to be complicated—it just needs to be consistent.

The 3 Must-Haves: Cleanse, Moisturize, Protect

Think of these three steps as the non-negotiables for healthy, happy skin. You don't need a 10-step routine with complicated serums; instead, focus on these foundational pillars. Cleansing washes away the dirt, oil, and sweat that build up during the day. Moisturizing helps keep the skin's barrier strong and hydrated, locking in moisture. And protecting with sunscreen shields their delicate skin from sun damage, which is crucial at any age. Mastering these three steps is the best way to build a routine that works. A simple three-step system is the perfect place to start and makes it easy to stay consistent.

A Simple Morning vs. Evening Routine

Once you have the three core products, it's time to put them into a daily rhythm. The best basic skincare routines are quick, easy, and consistent. Here’s how it breaks down:

Morning:

1. Cleanse: A gentle wash to start the day fresh.
2. Moisturize: Apply a light layer to hydrate the skin.
3. Protect: Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. This is the most important step to protect their skin for years to come.

Evening:

1. Cleanse: Wash away the day’s grime, sunscreen, and any pollutants.
2. Moisturize: Apply moisturizer to help skin repair and rehydrate overnight.

That’s it! A simple schedule like this takes just a few minutes but makes a huge difference.

Keep It Simple and Age-Appropriate

It can be tempting to add more products, especially with all the trends on social media, but preteen skin is still developing and can be easily irritated. Sticking to the basics is the kindest thing you can do for their skin. Overloading it with too many steps or harsh active ingredients (like strong exfoliants or anti-aging serums) can disrupt its natural balance, leading to redness, dryness, and even breakouts. The goal is to support their skin, not overwhelm it. Look for gentle, age-appropriate formulas specifically designed for young skin’s unique needs. A simple, consistent routine with the right products will help them build healthy habits without causing unnecessary irritation.

How to Choose Safe Skincare for Your Preteen

Walking down the skincare aisle can feel like a pop quiz you didn't study for—and when you're shopping for your child, the stakes feel even higher. The shelves are packed with trendy ingredients and bold claims, but preteen skin is delicate and has very different needs than adult skin. It’s more sensitive, its protective barrier is still developing, and it’s definitely not ready for the high-potency serums and treatments marketed to us. The goal isn't to find a miracle product; it's to find simple, safe, and effective formulas that will support their skin as it changes.

Choosing the right products comes down to understanding which ingredients help and which can harm. It’s about learning to read a label and focusing on what the skin actually needs: gentle cleansing, light hydration, and protection. At Bright Girl, we believe in a "less is more" approach, using only ingredients that are proven to be safe and beneficial for young skin. Our entire philosophy is built on a Beyond Clean Beauty standard, ensuring every formula is non-toxic and dermatologist-developed. Think of this as your cheat sheet for picking products that will make both you and your 11-year-old feel good.

Ingredients to Look For

When you're scanning an ingredient list, keep an eye out for gentle, hydrating heroes. You want ingredients that support the skin's natural barrier, not strip it away. Look for products formulated specifically for sensitive skin that contain things like ceramides, which help protect the skin's surface, and hyaluronic acid, which draws in moisture to keep skin hydrated and balanced. Another great ingredient is niacinamide, known for its ability to soothe skin and calm redness without causing irritation. It's also a good idea to opt for fragrance-free formulas, as added scents are a common cause of allergic reactions and sensitivity. You can find these gentle ingredients across our entire line of skincare essentials.

Ingredients to Avoid

Just as important as what you look for is what you avoid. Many popular skincare ingredients are simply too harsh for young, developing skin. Steer clear of powerful actives like retinol, potent vitamin C serums, and strong chemical exfoliants like alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs). These are designed to address mature skin concerns like fine lines and hyperpigmentation and can easily lead to redness, peeling, and irritation for a preteen. As a general rule, you should also avoid any products labeled as "anti-aging," "brightening," or "firming." Your 11-year-old’s skin is perfect as it is—it just needs gentle care, not a complete overhaul.

How to Read a Product Label

Don't let flashy packaging and marketing claims fool you. The most important information is on the back of the bottle. Encourage a simple routine and avoid the temptation to buy a multi-step system with lots of products. Overloading young skin with too many formulas can disrupt its natural balance, leading to dryness and breakouts. All your child really needs is a gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a daily sunscreen. For kids starting to see clogged pores, a cleanser with a low concentration of salicylic acid can be helpful, but always choose one designed for sensitive skin. The key is to prioritize simplicity and teach your child that a healthy routine is about consistency, not complexity.

Common Skin Concerns for 11-Year-Olds

As your child approaches their tween and teen years, their skin starts to change right along with everything else. The hormones that trigger growth spurts also affect their skin, often leading to new concerns you haven’t had to think about before. It’s completely normal for their skin to become oilier, more sensitive, or prone to breakouts. Understanding what’s happening and why is the first step to helping them care for their skin confidently. Let’s walk through some of the most common skin issues for this age group and how to handle them with a gentle, effective approach.

Acne and Early Breakouts

Seeing that first pimple can feel like a big deal, but it’s a near-universal experience. As hormones fluctuate, they signal the skin’s glands to produce more oil (sebum). When this excess oil mixes with dead skin cells, it can clog pores and lead to breakouts. The key is to address it without panic. It can be tempting to reach for harsh, adult-strength acne products, but this often does more harm than good. Using too many products or formulas with strong ingredients can strip the skin, damage its protective barrier, and actually cause more irritation and breakouts. Instead, focus on a consistent routine with gentle products designed for young skin.

Dryness and Sensitivity

While some preteens deal with oiliness, others experience the opposite: dry, flaky, or sensitive skin. Their skin might feel tight after washing or become red and irritated easily. Often, the culprit is a cleanser that’s too harsh. Strong bar soaps or aggressive acne washes can strip away the skin's natural oils, leaving it vulnerable and dry. To combat this, look for a mild, hydrating cleanser and a lightweight moisturizer. The goal is to support the skin’s natural moisture barrier, not work against it. Prioritizing gentle, effective ingredients that soothe and hydrate will help keep their skin calm, comfortable, and balanced.

The Oily T-Zone

Have you noticed that your child’s forehead, nose, and chin look a bit shinier than the rest of their face? Welcome to the T-zone. This area has a higher concentration of oil glands, so it’s often the first place to show signs of increased oil production. While a little shine is perfectly healthy, an overly oily T-zone can contribute to clogged pores. The solution isn’t to dry the skin out completely. A mild face wash used morning and night is enough to manage excess oil without causing irritation. It’s all about finding a happy medium where the skin feels clean and fresh, not tight and stripped.

The Importance of Sun Protection

If you only teach your child one skincare habit, make it this one: wear sunscreen every single day. It doesn’t matter if it’s cloudy, if they’ll be inside most of the day, or what season it is. Daily sun protection is the single most important thing anyone can do to protect their skin’s long-term health. Sun damage happens over time, and preventing it early is far easier than trying to address it later. Making sunscreen a non-negotiable part of their morning routine—just like brushing their teeth—will establish one of the best possible healthy skin habits for life.

Should Your 11-Year-Old Use Acne Products?

Seeing the first signs of breakouts on your child’s skin can feel like a call to action. Your first instinct might be to grab the same heavy-duty acne products you used as a teen, but it’s best to pause. An 11-year-old’s skin is still very delicate and sensitive. While they might be experiencing early pimples due to hormonal shifts, their skin barrier is not ready for the harsh ingredients found in many adult acne treatments. Using products that are too strong can lead to redness, irritation, and dryness, which can actually make breakouts worse.

The goal isn't to attack every tiny blemish with maximum-strength formulas. Instead, it's about teaching them how to care for their changing skin with a gentle, consistent routine. Think of this stage as building a healthy foundation. You’re introducing the right habits and supportive products that work with their skin, not against it. This approach helps manage current spots while protecting their skin for the future. The key is finding a happy medium between doing nothing and doing way too much.

Know When to Start Acne Treatment

The journey to clear skin begins with basic hygiene, not aggressive treatments. Daily face washing becomes a crucial habit around ages 8 to 10, which is when oil glands can start to become more active and pores might get clogged. Simply washing with a gentle cleanser every morning and night is the most important first step in preventing breakouts.

If you’ve established a consistent cleansing routine and still notice persistent pimples, that’s your cue to introduce a targeted, yet gentle, solution. This doesn’t mean starting a multi-step acne system. It might just mean adding a mild clarifying serum or a spot treatment formulated for sensitive skin. The idea is to respond to what your child’s skin needs right now, rather than starting a harsh regimen "just in case."

Find Gentle Alternatives

When it comes to preteen skin, less is always more. Instead of reaching for products with high concentrations of salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, look for gentle, hydrating products that won't clog pores. A simple routine with a few carefully chosen items is far more effective than a complex regimen that can overwhelm and irritate their skin barrier.

The best products for this age group are specifically formulated to be mild and supportive. They should be free of harsh sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances that can cause irritation. The goal is to calm inflammation and balance the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. A gentle approach now will help their skin stay healthy and resilient as they move through their teen years.

Always Start with the Basics

Before you even think about "acne products," make sure your 11-year-old has mastered the fundamentals. A great skincare routine doesn't need to be complicated. In fact, it should boil down to three simple steps: Cleanse, Moisturize, and Protect. This easy-to-remember framework is the foundation for healthy skin at any age.

In the morning, the routine is simple: wash with a gentle cleanser, then apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen with at least SPF 30. In the evening, it’s just two steps: wash their face with the same cleanser and apply a light moisturizer. Mastering this basic routine is the single most effective thing you can do to manage breakouts and set them up for a lifetime of healthy skin. Our skincare sets are designed to make this simple routine a breeze.

Common Skincare Mistakes Parents Make

Navigating the world of preteen skincare can feel like a pop quiz you didn't study for. It's easy to make a few missteps along the way, especially when you're just trying to do what's best for your child. The good news is that most common mistakes are simple to fix. By being aware of these few key things, you can guide your 11-year-old toward a routine that’s safe, effective, and sets them up for a lifetime of healthy skin. Let's walk through some of the most frequent slip-ups and how to steer clear of them.

Using Your Products on Their Skin

It might seem harmless to let your child use a pump of your favorite moisturizer or face wash, but this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Adult skincare products are formulated for mature skin concerns, like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. These formulas often contain potent active ingredients like retinoids or heavy oils that are far too harsh for a preteen’s delicate skin. Using them can lead to irritation, rashes, clogged pores, and even trigger breakouts. Instead, it's crucial to find products specifically formulated for their unique needs—gentle, simple, and supportive of their changing skin.

Overcomplicating Their Routine

With social media showcasing elaborate 10-step routines, it’s tempting to think more is more. For an 11-year-old, the opposite is true. Their skin doesn't need a complex lineup of serums, toners, essences, and masks. In fact, using too many products can overwhelm their skin barrier, causing sensitivity and irritation. A simple and consistent routine is far more effective. All they really need is a gentle cleanser, a lightweight moisturizer, and a daily sunscreen. Starting with a straightforward skincare set can take the guesswork out of building a routine and keep things from getting too complicated.

Skipping Daily Sunscreen

This is a non-negotiable. Many of us think of sunscreen as something for a beach day, but daily sun protection is the single most important habit for long-term skin health. Harmful UV rays are present every day, even when it's cloudy or they're only outside for a short time. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, consistent sunscreen use helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer later in life. Making sunscreen a mandatory part of their morning routine builds a crucial habit that will protect their skin for decades to come.

Assuming Expensive Is Better

It's easy to get caught up in the hype of trendy, high-end skincare products with beautiful packaging. While these products are all over social media, a high price tag doesn't automatically mean a product is better, especially for young skin. Often, you're paying for marketing and brand prestige, not necessarily a superior formula for a preteen. The most important factor is choosing products with safe, effective ingredients that are appropriate for their age. Focus on finding a brand that prioritizes dermatologist-developed formulas designed for young skin, rather than chasing the most expensive option on the shelf.

Build the Perfect Daily Skincare Routine

Now that you know the what and the why, let's put it all together. Building a daily skincare routine for your 11-year-old is all about creating simple, repeatable habits that will serve them for years to come. The goal isn’t a 10-step process with a dozen different products; it’s a straightforward and effective ritual that cleanses, hydrates, and protects their changing skin. This isn't about chasing perfection, but about teaching them how to care for themselves in a healthy, positive way that builds confidence from the inside out.

The key is consistency, not complexity. A few core products used every morning and night will make a huge difference in managing oiliness, preventing breakouts, and keeping their skin feeling good. It’s much better to have them use three steps consistently than to have them feel overwhelmed by seven steps and give up. To make it even easier, you can start with curated sets that take the guesswork out of finding the right products that work together. Think of this as their starter pack for a lifetime of healthy skin, giving them everything they need and nothing they don’t.

A Step-by-Step Morning Routine

Mornings can be a rush, so this routine needs to be quick and easy. The focus here is on a fresh start and protection for the day ahead.

First, have them wash their face with a gentle cleanser. This step is important for removing any oil and sweat that built up overnight, giving them a clean canvas. After patting their skin dry with a clean towel, apply a lightweight moisturizer. Even if their skin feels oily, a good moisturizer helps balance everything out. The final and most important step is sunscreen. Look for a noncomedogenic formula with at least SPF 30 to protect their skin from sun damage without clogging pores.

The Essential Evening Routine

The evening routine is just as crucial as the morning one. This is their chance to wash away the day—including dirt, oil, sweat, and sunscreen—so their skin can rest and repair overnight.

Start by washing their face with the same gentle cleanser they used in the morning. This ensures all the buildup from the day is gone, which is a key step in preventing clogged pores and early breakouts. After cleansing, follow up with a light, oil-free moisturizer. Applying it before bed helps keep their skin hydrated while they sleep, so they wake up with a soft, balanced complexion. It’s a simple two-step process that makes a big impact.

Tips for Busy Mornings

Let’s be real: getting out the door on time is a challenge. A complicated skincare routine is the last thing anyone needs. Here are a few ways to make it stick, even on the most chaotic mornings.

• Keep it simple. Stick to the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. A three-step routine is easy to remember and takes just a couple of minutes. You can even find a two-in-one moisturizer with SPF to combine steps.
• Make products accessible. Keep their skincare products in a visible, designated spot on the bathroom counter. If everything is right there and easy to grab, they’re much more likely to use it without you having to remind them.
• Focus on the non-negotiable. If you’re truly short on time, the one step they should never skip is sunscreen. Teach them that protecting their skin from the sun is a daily must-do, just like brushing their teeth.

Help Your Child Stick to Their Routine

You’ve found the perfect products and mapped out a simple routine. Now comes the real challenge: getting your 11-year-old to actually do it. Consistency is what builds lifelong habits, but it doesn’t happen overnight. The key is to make skincare feel less like a chore and more like a normal part of their day. A simple routine can give kids a powerful sense of control over their own bodies, helping them establish a foundation for healthy skin that will last a lifetime.

Make It Fun and Consistent

The best way to make a habit stick is to make it enjoyable. Let your child have a say by allowing them to pick out their products from a parent-approved selection, like one of our curated skincare sets. You can also add fun accessories like a soft headband or a special face cloth to make the experience feel more like a mini spa moment. A simple sticker chart on the bathroom mirror can be a great visual reminder. Sticking to the same time every morning and evening helps build muscle memory, making the routine an automatic part of their day.

Lead by Example

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. If your child sees you consistently taking care of your own skin, they’ll understand it’s an important part of overall health. Try doing your routines at the same time to turn it into a shared activity and get a few minutes of quality time together. You can talk about your day while you both wash your faces. By modeling a simple routine of a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, you reinforce the exact steps they should be taking and show them that self-care is a priority.

Teach Them the "Why"

Explaining the purpose behind each step can make a huge difference. Preteens are curious, and they’re more likely to commit to a routine if they understand why it matters. You don’t need a full science lesson, just the basics. Explain that cleansing washes away the dirt and oil that can clog pores, while moisturizer keeps their skin hydrated. Most importantly, sunscreen is their shield against sun damage. Using sunscreen daily is critical for protecting their skin for years to come. When they understand the "why," the routine becomes an empowering choice.

More Than Skin Deep: Daily Habits for Healthy Skin

A great skincare routine is fantastic, but the secret to truly glowing, healthy skin goes beyond the products you use. Think of it like this: cleansers and moisturizers are your skin's support team, but daily habits are the star players. What your child eats, how much they sleep, and even how they manage stress all show up on their skin. Building these healthy habits now sets them up for a lifetime of well-being, inside and out.

At Bright Girl, we believe in a holistic approach that we call Beyond Clean Beauty, which means caring for the whole person, not just their skin. By pairing a simple, effective skincare routine with positive lifestyle choices, you’re giving your preteen the best possible foundation. These daily practices work hand-in-hand with their products to keep their skin clear, balanced, and resilient as they grow.

The Role of Diet and Hydration

What we put into our bodies is just as important as what we put on our skin. A balanced diet full of colorful fruits and vegetables provides the vitamins and antioxidants skin needs to thrive. And let’s not forget water! Staying hydrated helps keep skin looking plump and healthy from the inside out. Encourage your child to carry a reusable water bottle to school and sip throughout the day. Simple swaps, like choosing fruit over sugary snacks, can make a big difference in their overall health and skin.

Why Sleep and Stress Matter

Sleep is when the body hits the reset button. During the night, our bodies work to repair and regenerate cells, including skin cells. Making sure your 11-year-old gets enough rest is a non-negotiable for healthy skin. The recommended amount of sleep for this age group helps prevent tired-looking skin and allows it to heal. Similarly, stress can trigger breakouts. Helping your child find healthy ways to unwind, whether it's through sports, reading, or just talking about their day, is a powerful tool for keeping their skin calm and clear.

Keep Hands Off Blemishes

It’s the golden rule of skincare: don’t pick! It can be so tempting to pop a pimple, but it’s crucial to teach your child to keep their hands off their face. Touching, scratching, or squeezing blemishes can push bacteria deeper into the skin, making breakouts worse and potentially leading to infection or even permanent scars. Instead of picking, have them stick to their cleansing routine and let their skin heal naturally. This simple habit is one of the most effective ways to prevent small spots from becoming bigger problems.

When Is It Time to See a Dermatologist?

A solid daily routine is the foundation of healthy skin, but sometimes you need to call in a professional. Think of a dermatologist as a valuable partner in your child's skincare journey. They have specialized knowledge that goes beyond what you can find on a store shelf and can offer personalized guidance when you feel stuck. Knowing when to make that appointment is a key part of supporting your child and helping them feel confident in their skin. It’s not about overreacting, but about being proactive and getting the right help at the right time.

Know the Warning Signs

If you notice specific skin concerns popping up, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema, persistent rashes, or early and stubborn acne are clear signs that your child could benefit from professional care. Getting an expert opinion early on can make a huge difference in managing these common skin conditions and preventing them from becoming more serious. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose the problem and create a treatment plan that’s just right for your child’s developing skin, giving you both peace of mind and a clear path forward.

Get Help for Persistent Skin Issues

Have you been consistent with a gentle routine, but your child’s breakouts or dryness just won’t budge? This is the perfect time to see a dermatologist. When over-the-counter products aren't delivering results, a specialist can step in with more effective solutions. They can provide advice and treatments specifically designed for young skin, ensuring they are both safe and powerful enough to work. Our own dermatologist-developed formulas are rooted in this same principle: providing gentle yet effective care. A dermatologist can help you cut through the confusion and find what truly works for your child's unique needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

My 11-year-old's skin is totally clear. Do they still need a skincare routine? Yes, absolutely. Think of skincare at this age as being more about prevention and practice than it is about correction. Establishing a simple routine now teaches them fundamental self-care and helps their skin stay balanced as hormones begin to change. A gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and daily sunscreen will protect their skin and build healthy habits that will serve them for the rest of their lives.

My daughter sees trendy, multi-step routines on social media and wants to try them. How do I handle that? This is such a common challenge. It's a great opportunity to explain that her skin is unique and has different needs than the adults she sees online. You can validate her interest while guiding her toward what’s truly best for her skin. Frame a simple, three-step routine as the smart, expert-approved approach for her age. You can make her routine feel special with fun accessories, like a soft headband or her own designated skincare shelf in the bathroom.

Can't my child just wash their face with regular bar soap and water? While it might seem simple, most bar soaps are far too harsh for the delicate skin on the face. They can strip away the skin's natural protective oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even more oil production as the skin tries to compensate. A gentle, pH-balanced facial cleanser is specifically formulated to remove dirt and oil without disrupting this important skin barrier, keeping it healthy and calm.

What's the one product my child absolutely cannot skip? Sunscreen. If you only manage to get them to do one thing every single day, make it applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sun damage is cumulative, and protecting their skin now is the single most effective thing they can do to prevent long-term health issues and premature aging down the road. It’s a non-negotiable habit, just like brushing their teeth.

When should we move beyond a basic routine and add an acne product? Always start with the fundamentals first. A consistent routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen is often enough to manage the early stages of oiliness and clogged pores. If your child has been sticking to this routine for several weeks and you still see persistent breakouts, that’s the time to introduce a gentle, targeted treatment. Look for a mild spot treatment or serum specifically formulated for young, sensitive skin, rather than reaching for harsh adult-strength products.